Dell Brings Same Value To Handhelds As It Brings To PCs

November 2002 (Newstream) -- The waiting has ended. Dell today unveiled its first handheld computer brand, Axim, at the Comdex 2002 trade show.

The first model, the X5, is based on Microsoft Windows Powered Pocket PC software and is available in either $199 or $299 configurations after $50 mail-in rebate or $50 discount (regularly $249 and $3491, respectively). Both configurations feature dual-slot (CompactFlash and Secure Digital) expansion capability, sleek design and standard one-year, next-business-day Advanced Exchange service .

"Until today, handheld users have either had to pay a premium for a full-featured system or live with some compromises," said John Medica, vice-president and general manager of Dell Client Products. "We've learned a great deal about this market by listening to customers and waiting for the relevant technologies to standardize, and everything we've learned has gone into the Axim X5. We're pleased to be able to deliver a new level of value and accessibility to the handheld marketplace."

The $299 Axim X5 configuration is powered by the Intel Xscale processor at 400MHz and offers 64MB of SDRAM, along with 48MB of Intel StrataFlashÔ ROM. The built-in Secure Digital and CompactFlash slots can host a number of devices ranging from 802.11b wireless adapters to memory expansion. A brilliant 3.5-inch transflective TFT color display is standard on both Axim X5 configurations, with 240x320 (QVGA) resolution. The unit's sync/recharge cradle (standard on $299 configuration) has an extra battery charge slot that accommodates either a spare standard battery (1440 mAh) or the available high-capacity (3400mAh) battery.

Users with lower memory and speed requirements can opt for the X5's $199 configuration, which has an Intel Xscale 300MHz processor, 48MB of SDRAM, 32MB of Flash ROM and a USB sync cable instead of a cradle, along with all the other features of the $299 unit. Both units will be offered with a wide variety of accessories, such as folding and snap-on keyboards and leather carrying case.

"We're truly excited that Dell is bringing the power and flexibility of the Pocket PC to customers at such a tremendous value," said Juha Christensen, Microsoft corporate vice-president of the Mobile Devices Division. "The Axim X5 delivers a no-compromises Pocket PC experience and opens the door for a broad range of customers to enjoy the benefits of using it."

The Dell Axim will initially be available in the U.S. and Canada, with plans for other regions in early 2003.

Technical Features of the Axim include:

Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 Software including Pocket versions of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel, Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger, Windows Media Player and more.
Intel XScale Processor at 400MHz or 300MHz
Brilliant 3.5-inch TFT 240x320 QVGA 65K Color Transflective LCD
64MB SDRAM or 32MB SDRAM
48MB or 32MB Intel StrataFlash ROM
1 CompactFlash Type II Slot
1 Secure Digital Slot
IrDA port
1440mAh Li-Ion Removable Battery with Backup Battery
Optional 3400mAh Li-Ion High Capacity Battery
Built-in Microphone & Speaker
Backlit Power Button / Indicator Light
196g (6.9 oz)
128 x 81.5 x 18mm (5" x 3.2" x 0.7")
Power Button, 4 Application Keys, 5-way Navigator Button, Scroll Dial, Record Button, Headphone mini-jack
USB or Serial Cradle with 2nd primary battery charging slot
Ships standard with choice of Cradle or Synch Cable, AC Adapter & Power Cord, Protective Jacket, System Documentation & Companion CD.